It is with deep sorrow we announce the peaceful passing of Vernon Howard Jennings at the age of 85 on February 28, 2020 at ARCH.
The devoted husband of Bonnie Jean (nee Jolicoeur) for 57 years. Beloved son of the late Howard and Alberta Jennings. Loving father of Susan Jennings Wood (Simon) and Daniel Jennings. Dearly admired “Papa” to Keira and Kaelen Wood of Naples, FL, and grandfather to Caitlin and Liam Jennings of London, Ontario. Cherished brother of the late Art (Nora), sister of the late Arlene Schroeder (Paul) and the late infant sister Marilyn. Vern was born in Aurora, Illinois and immigrated to Canada after the death of his infant sister Marilyn. Vern served in the U.S. Army 2nd B.G. 4th Infantry from 1957–1959 in Germany and on active duty as a reservist until 1963. Vern met Bonnie at Hills Hardware where they worked together. Vern finished his career at the International Bridge Authority for the State of Michigan.
Vern loved his Toronto Blue Jays and meeting famous singers at the Border which included Johnny Cash, Tammy Wynett, Loretta Lynn, Boxcar Willy and many others. He had a shrine of all the singers he met in his home on St. Georges. Everybody knew Vern as a talkative loving generous man with a smile on his face always. Vern was most proud of his ‘girlies’ granddaughters Keira and Kaelen. They were his pride and joy. Vern lived a simple life and loved his family dearly.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to the kind care givers including his home nurses; Brandi and Leo, special friend Pat Leybourne for all her help these past months (and years), Nora and Chris Costello for their endless hospital visits, and the dedicated staff of ARCH most particularly Nurse Jennifer who made the transition as painless as possible for Vern and family.
There will be no visitation or service. In lieu of flowers, donations will be gratefully accepted to the Algoma Residential Community Hospice (ARCH). Arrangements entrusted to O’Sullivan Funeral Home and Cremation Centre, 215 St. James St, 705-759-8456.